The complexity and importance of COVID-19 has put data, models and visualization into the center of everyday life. Interactive data visualizations are in high demand to persuade and understand current conditions and to predict future outcomes of the virus’ impact. Data visualizations not only play a crucial role in public explanation, they also contribute to a better understanding of the importance of a drastic shift in behavior. We have become very disciplined in a very short time, partly through data visualization. Besides its educational role, data visualizations became indispensable tools for governments to take the right decisions at the right time. They helped to flatten the curve and saved lives while limiting economical damage.